Anime Aficionados To Invade Library Sunday

As they do every year, young adults with a passion for Japanese culture and video games will take over the Bedford Branch Library for the annual Anime Convention.

The rally, hosted each year by the Bedford Anime Club, will take place from 1 to 7 p.m. on Sunday. The day will feature some new activities, with a few old favorites mixed in.

“This year we are having a variety of activities ranging from panel presenters to mini craft tutorials,” Christine Allen, a Bedford librarian, said.

Each activity will tie into the theme of the 2014 convention, Video Game Craze. This theme, Ms. Allen said, was chosen “because a variety of gaming consoles and games are celebrating major anniversaries this year.”

Ms. Allen said attendees can look forward to learning from several guest speakers.

Writer Kevin Bunch will give an in-depth presentation on retro gaming. Anime Club member Karen Keeler will present on the art of cosplay in the anime and manga community. Stan Sagen from Anigames in Toledo will speak about the art of animation.

Throughout the day, a series of different craft tutorials also will take place, Ms. Allen said.

Jennifer Ellison will be presenting a tutorial on plushies, or stuffed animals, and Ms. Allen will be doing tutorials on polymer clay charms based on the game, World of Warcraft.

The popular Cosplay Cafe — where diners are served snacks by their favorite anime, video game and comic book characters — also will take place on a first-come, first-serve basis.

“We are also having raffles, a cosplay contest, an art contest, various vendors and artist booths, and a sandwich bar,” Ms. Allen said.

The Anime Convention is free and open to the public. Those who attend are encouraged to wear costumes. For more information, call the library at 734-847-6747.